New bat species and parasites recorded in Algeria for first time

A study published in Parasitology has documented the first record of Laisler's bat in Algeria and identified new parasite–host associations.

• Researchers examined 20 bats from a tunnel in Blida province, finding 18 Rhinolophus blasii, one Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, and one Laisler's bat – a new species for Algeria.
• The study recorded the parasite Nycteribia schmidlii on Rhinolophus blasii for the first time in Algeria.
• Researchers stated that the findings do not indicate a direct threat to humans but contribute to scientific knowledge on bat diversity and parasites.